When is the best time to measure my feet for online sneakers?

We recommend measuring at the end of the day when your feet are slightly fuller from standing, and wearing the socks you plan to use with the sneakers to get an accurate fit; measure both feet and use the larger foot when choosing a size.

Which measurement method should we use for length and which for width?

For length, we suggest the wall method-heel against a straight wall and measure to the longest toe in millimetres; for width and toe shape, use the tracing method and measure the widest part across the ball of the foot.

How much toe room should we allow when converting millimetres to a shoe size?

Compare your millimetre length to the brand’s size chart and allow about 5-10 mm of extra space for everyday sneakers and 8-12 mm for running shoes; if your feet differ, size to the larger foot.

What should we do if our foot is wider than average?

Look for product descriptions that note a ‘roomy’ or ‘wide’ fit, consider going up half a size and using a thinner insole, and check brand-specific width markings such as D (standard) or E (wide) before you buy.

Any practical tips for high arches or other common foot types when choosing sneakers?

For high arches we advise choosing sneakers with good midfoot support and removable insoles so we can add orthotics if needed; for a wide forefoot, pick models with a roomier toe-box or size up half and try a thinner insole.

How to measure your foot for online sneakers

Why measuring matters when buying sneakers online

Buying sneakers without trying them is easier than ever, but fit is still the number-one reason people return shoes. We recommend measuring so you know the true length and width of your foot, how different brands shape their lasts, and whether you need a half-size or a wider fit. A quick home measurement saves time, gives confidence, and reduces returns.

What you'll need

One sheet of A4 paper or similar (plain paper works fine).
A ruler or tape measure with millimetre marks.
A pen or pencil.
Socks you plan to wear with the sneakers (thin or thick depending on use).
Someone to help if you have limited mobility, or a wall and chair to steady yourself.

Quick note on timing and conditions

Measure at the end of the day when feet are slightly fuller from standing. Wear the socks you’ll normally use with the shoes - for example, thin trainer socks for everyday sneakers or thicker sports socks for running. Measure both feet and base decisions on the larger foot.

Step-by-step measurement: length and width

Follow these ordered steps carefully. We describe two common methods: the wall method (most accurate for length) and the tracing method (quick and reliable for width and arch notes).

Wall method for foot length

Place a sheet of paper on the floor against a straight wall.
Stand with your heel against the wall and your weight evenly distributed. Keep the foot you’re measuring flat and straight.
Mark the longest point of your foot on the paper (often the big toe or second toe).
Measure from the wall (heel) to the mark in millimetres. Record the length for each foot.

Tracing method for width and toe shape

Place the paper on a flat floor. Put the foot on the paper and trace the outline while standing.
Measure the widest part of the trace (ball of foot) across in millimetres.
Note whether your toes taper or spread - that helps when choosing toe-box styles (narrow, standard, or wide).

How to convert measurements to sizes

Most brands publish their own size charts. We recommend comparing your millimetre length to brand charts rather than relying on a remembered shoe size. If a chart gives centimetres, divide your millimetre number by 10. When in doubt, choose the size that gives 5-10 mm of extra space at the toe for everyday sneakers and 8-12 mm for running shoes.

If you find a difference between left and right, size to the larger foot. For narrower or wider feet, check brand-specific width notes - some labels list D (standard), E (wide) or provide fit notes in product descriptions.

When browsing our selection of everyday options, you can compare fits in our Factory sneakers article to understand how casual models usually fit compared with performance trainers. Factory sneakers: Everyday comfort and style for South African life

A short checklist before you add to cart

Have you measured both feet and recorded the larger foot?
Did you use the same socks you'll wear with the shoes?
Did you compare your millimetre measurement to the brand's chart?
Have you allowed 5-12 mm of toe room depending on activity?

We also carry a wide selection of sneaker styles across sizes - browse sneakers on Bash to see product pages that list fit notes and brand sizing charts. Sneakers

Add as a preferred source on Google

Practical tips for common foot types and uses

A few small fit changes make a big difference in comfort. Below are experience-based tips we use when helping customers choose the right sneaker.

If you have a high arch

Look for sneakers with good midfoot support and removable insoles so you can add orthotics if needed. Runners with high arches often prefer models with firmer midsole support; everyday casual sneakers with soft, cushioned midsoles can still work if the shoe has a supportive heel cup.

If you have a wide forefoot

Choose shoes with a roomier toe-box or consider going up half a size and using a thinner insole. When the product description mentions a "roomy" or "wide" fit, that's a useful signal - and our product filters can surface wider-fitting models so you can shop more quickly.

Children and growing feet

For kids, allow roughly 10-12 mm of space for growth. Re-measure every two to three months for toddlers and every three to six months for older children. Shoes that fit too tightly can affect natural foot development, so err on the side of a little extra space.

How to handle brand inconsistencies

Different brands and even different models from the same brand use different lasts. When switching brands, compare your millimetre measurement to the product chart and read customer fit notes. If a product page mentions "runs small" or "runs large", favour that guidance over numerical size alone.

Fit tip: If you're between sizes, choose the larger size for longer walks, running, or if you plan to wear thicker socks. Choose the smaller size for a snug, style-first fit if you know the model has a stretchier upper.

Tools, costs and a few South African examples

A simple ruler and paper cost almost nothing; a dedicated foot-measure (Brannock-style) can cost from about R200-R600 if you prefer a compact tool - many shoe stores offer free measuring services too. When shopping online, check the product page for a size guide and customer photos; these often show real-world fit on South African feet and help reduce uncertainty.

What to do when you receive the sneakers

Try them on indoors on a clean surface with the socks you measured in.
Walk for 10-15 minutes to check heel slip, toe room, and arch comfort.
Keep original packaging for returns and note any break-in guidance on the product page.

If you're still unsure

If a fit feels borderline, check for product reviews or Ask a Question on the product page - many customers mention if they sized up or down. We also link to broader fit comparisons in our Sneakers articles so you can read how different materials and constructions feel across the range. Canvas vs Leather Sneakers: Practical benefits and when to choose each

How to measure your foot for online sneakers

Measure both feet

Sources

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Allow toe room

Compare brand charts

Why measuring matters when buying sneakers online

What you'll need

Quick note on timing and conditions

Step-by-step measurement: length and width

Wall method for foot length

Tracing method for width and toe shape

How to convert measurements to sizes

A short checklist before you add to cart

Practical tips for common foot types and uses

If you have a high arch

If you have a wide forefoot

Children and growing feet

How to handle brand inconsistencies

Tools, costs and a few South African examples

What to do when you receive the sneakers

If you're still unsure

Mmaphefo

Ukhona

Sambesiwe

Kamo

"Micayla"

Sabelo

Meagan

Bat

Anotha

Tshepiso

Elisa

Nqobile

Nicky

Melaney

Thina

Gwayimane

Phumelelo

Fenkie

Roxanne

Charlize

Refilwe

Dimane

Seth

Neil

Kirsti

Fatima

Nicolette

Ronel

Inge

Valerie

Adri

Chadley

Makhosonke

Mabel

Simo

Sharon

Nobuhle

Angelique Davis

Thabile

Arlene

Kgomotso

Kgosi

Steven

Kago

Reitumetse

Anina

Azwihangwisi

Marlene

Nkensane

Moreblessings

Palesa